Benign Tumors of the Extrahepatic Bile Ducts

The diagnosis in biliary disease and the determination of the etiology of jaundice are complicated by the occasional occurrence of benign tumors of the extrahepatic bile ducts. Recent experience with 3 of these tumors and a review of the literature have dictated the importance of their early recognition and local excision. Benign tumors of the extrahepatic bile ducts, due to strategic position, may be as deadly as the most malignant tumors. Various studies indicate that many such tumors are overlooked. More will be recognized, if we are cognizant of their occurrence, with the advent of a more generalized usage of cholangiography and a better knowledge of the pancreatobiliary anatomy. This is evidenced by the fact that in 1929 Rolleston and McNee 38 reported 10 cases; in 1933 Christopher 10 reported 41 cases; in 1950 Chu 11 reported 55 cases with only 30 authentic cases having an adequate history and microscopic